Rare Waves Make Sea Blush Red Along RK Beach in Vizag

 Visakhapatnam: A reddish glow rippling across the waves along RK Beach in Visakhapatnam on Monday, December 15, night drew crowds of astonished onlookers. The sea’s blush red glow briefly transformed the shoreline near Kursura Submarine Museum.

The scene, recorded by social media user M. Gnanesh, quickly went viral, prompting a wave of speculation online.

Marine scientists say the explanation for this phenomenon lies in the ocean’s natural rhythms, rather than anything mysterious. Andhra University Marine Living Resources department head Dr. Ramesh Babu explained to Deccan Chronicle that the colouration is most likely linked to the behaviour of microscopic plankton within the ocean currents.

He explained: “The sea is constantly in motion. Not only at the surface where waves are driven by wind, but also below, where warm internal currents move north to south along the coast. These currents transport micro-plankton, such as dinoflagellates and other algae. Under favourable conditions, these organisms accumulate near the shore. When they die and begin to decompose, the pigments and organic debris they release are pushed landward by waves, giving the water a reddish tint.”

Dr. Ramesh pointed out that different algal groups are dominant at different times of the year, depending on temperature and nutrient availability. Blue-green algae, red algae and dinoflagellates each flourish under specific seasonal conditions.

Nutrients, he said, are not naturally abundant in coastal waters. They typically enter the sea through rainfall, river discharge, canal flows or sewage inflows. Once in the ocean, internal currents redistribute these nutrients, creating ideal conditions for algal growth. The pigments within these organisms determine the colour that becomes visible during such events.

Scientists emphasise that while reddish waves may appear unusual, such occurrences are natural and generally not harmful on contact. They fall under the category of algal blooms, sometimes referred to as red tides, which occur when algal populations increase rapidly due to warm temperatures, high nutrient levels and calm seas.

However, experts maintain that only laboratory analysis of water samples can confirm the exact species involved and whether the bloom poses any ecological risks.

The viral video sparked a different kind of concern, with many social media users making references to movies, particularly Telugu film Devara. It indicates declining curiosity among younger audiences about natural phenomena and environmental changes. “Entertainment should not overshadow scientific awareness,” researchers maintain.

This is not the first time Visakhapatnam’s coastline has displayed unusual marine activity. In April 2023, Bheemili Beach witnessed bioluminescent waves, glowing blue due to light-emitting plankton.

“Together, these events highlight the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the region’s marine ecosystem. They remind coastal communities of the delicate balance that shapes life along the shore,” says Dr. Ramesh.